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Giraldi A, Nappi RE, Palacios S, Reisman Y, Jannini EA. From couplepause to doublepause: the impact of midlife physical, psychological, and social changes on the sexual life of aging couples. Sex Med Rev 2024; 12:346-354. [PMID: 38515320 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qeae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Midlife men and women are facing frequent sexual problems that affect not only individuals' sexual health but also the sexual health of aging couples. OBJECTIVES To review the main sexual life challenges faced by midlife couples, to present the concepts of couplepause and doublepause as 2 new paradigms to address the sexual health needs of aging couples, and to discuss key aspects in couple-focused care. METHODS An online meeting attended by 5 European experts in sexual health was carried out in June 2023 to discuss the topic. The conversation centered on their clinical experience and expert opinion. Additionally, the indexed literature was reviewed to endorse and complement the expert opinions obtained in the aforementioned meeting. RESULTS Midlife men and women face physical, psychological, and sociocultural changes that affect their sexual activity. These changes may be experienced differently between genders. Both members of a couple may experience age-related changes concurrently or in an unsynchronized manner affecting their sexual health. Communication, sharing expectations, defining sexual dynamics, and couple goals are determinant for the sexual health of a midlife couple. Couplepause and doublepause are 2 new complementary paradigms that effectively address the sexual health needs of aging couples as a unit, considering physical, psychological, cultural, social, and dyadic-related factors. Couple-centered strategies should promote open communication about couple intimacy issues, understanding the diverse expectations according to gender and orientation, communication styles, and goals. The following are identified as crucial aspects to promote couple-focused care: education and training of health care professionals, the provision of information to aging couples, physician involvement in addressing sexual problems, the need for collaboration across medical specialties, and the development of effective tools and strategies. CONCLUSIONS The sexual problems of aging couples should be managed following couple-centered strategies that effectively address their sexual health needs as a couple.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, 27100, Italy
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, 27100, Italy
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van den Houdt SCM, Mommersteeg PMC, Widdershoven J, Kupper N. Sex and Gender Differences in Psychosocial Risk Profiles Among Patients with Coronary Heart Disease - the THORESCI-Gender Study. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:130-144. [PMID: 37170007 PMCID: PMC10803502 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10170-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychosocial factors tend to cluster and exhibit differences associated with sex assigned at birth. Gender disparities, though, remain uncharted so far. The current study aimed to first explore the clustering of eight established psychosocial risk factors among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), followed by examining how sex and gender differences characterize these psychosocial risk profiles, while adjusting for the effect of age. METHOD In total, 532 patients with CHD (Mage = 68.2 ± 8.9; 84% male) completed the comprehensive psychosocial screener and questionnaires to gauge gender identity, traits, and sociocultural norm scores. A three-step latent profile analysis (LPA) was performed to identify latent profiles and their correlates. RESULTS LPA revealed six psychosocial risk profiles: (1) somewhat distressed overall (32%); (2) low distress (27%); (3) anger, hostility, and Type D (15%); (4) emotional distress and trauma (11%); (5) anxiety (9%); and (6) high overall distress (7%). Masculine traits and older age increased the odds to belong to the low distress profile (#2), while feminine traits and a feminine gender norm score increased the chance to belong to profiles with moderate to high distress. The effects of gender identity and feminine traits were sex dependent. CONCLUSION The current study's findings explain heterogeneity among patients with CHD by considering the joint occurrence of psychosocial risk factors, and the role of sex, age, and gender within those profiles. Being more sensitive to the roles that sex, gender, and an integrated set of risk factors play may ultimately improve treatment and adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C M van den Houdt
- Center of Research On Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Department of Medical & Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Paula M C Mommersteeg
- Center of Research On Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Department of Medical & Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Widdershoven
- Center of Research On Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Department of Medical & Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Doctor Deelenlaan 5, 5042 AD, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Nina Kupper
- Center of Research On Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Department of Medical & Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
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3
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O’Donnell S, Lohan M, Oliffe JL, Grant D, Richardson N, Galway K. Men's mental health and the arts: perceived benefits and dynamics of engagement. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad092. [PMID: 37590385 PMCID: PMC10433405 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Arts engagement is gaining recognition as a non-clinical approach to promote mental health and well-being. However, the perceived utility of the arts to promote mental health among men with low socioeconomic status (SES) and how to best engage them is underexplored. This study explores the lived experiences of men with low SES who engage with the arts in Northern Ireland (n = 41). Data collected via focus groups (n = 5) and interviews (n = 11) were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to inductively derive four themes. Theme 1 highlights how the arts facilitated friendship, a collective identity, peer support and a reason to socialize. Themes 2 and 3 explore how the arts enhanced self-esteem and emotional regulation by developing a routine, purpose, sense of mastery, a sense of catharsis through immersion in a soothing endeavour and an alternative outlet for self-expression. Theme 4 covers strategies that facilitate male engagement in the arts such as using a familiar space, delivering to an existing male group, framing the programme around male interests not health or creativity, building on existing strengths and capacities, enabling ownership, using tangible action-orientated activities, and being non-authoritative and flexible with delivery. This is one of the first studies to highlight the gendered dimensions in which men with low SES engage with and experience mental health benefits through arts engagement. This study points towards relevant theories to further understand the pathways between the arts and improved mental health among men which can inform development of tailored arts programmes for men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane O’Donnell
- Department of Health and Sports Sciences, The National Centre for Men’s Health, South East Technological University, Kilkenny Road Campus, Kilkenny Road, Carlow R93 V960, Ireland
| | - Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - John L Oliffe
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, 302-6190 Agronomy Road, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Nursing, University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - David Grant
- School of Arts, English and Languages, Queen’s University Belfast, 2 University Square, Belfast BT7 1NN, UK
| | - Noel Richardson
- Department of Health and Sports Sciences, The National Centre for Men’s Health, South East Technological University, Kilkenny Road Campus, Kilkenny Road, Carlow R93 V960, Ireland
| | - Karen Galway
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
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Wang K, Gu D. Reciprocal associations between social media use and self-perception of aging among older adults: Do men and women differ? Soc Sci Med 2023; 321:115786. [PMID: 36822012 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.115786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the positive impact of social media use in late adulthood, social media use is still low among older adults. Research in technology adoption and utilization indicates the importance of age-specific factors, such as self-perception of aging (SPA). As it is unclear whether SPA facilitates social media use or social media use promotes SPA, reverse causality has emerged as a major point of contention within this literature, with several studies reporting conflicting results. Thus, in this study, we aim to contribute unique insight by examining (1) whether positive and negative SPAs demonstrate unique associations with social media use and (2) whether these reciprocal associations differ by gender. METHODS Using two waves (2014 and 2018) from the Health and Retirement Study, 4101 older Americans (age ≥65 years) with normal baseline cognition were included in this study. Autoregressive cross-lagged analyses were conducted to assess reciprocal associations between SPA and social media use among the total sample and by gender subgroups. RESULTS Controlling for covariates, we found that more frequent social media use marginally predicted higher positive SPA four years later (B = 0.02, p = .07), and higher negative SPA marginally predicted less frequent social media use four years later (B = -0.07, p = .08). However, the by-gender analysis showed that the positive effect of social media use on positive SPA was only significant among older men (B = 0.04, p < .05), whereas the negative impact of negative SPA on social media use only existed among older women (B = -0.13, p < .01). CONCLUSIONS The reciprocal associations between SPA and social media use differ by the valence of SPA (positive/negative) and gender. Future interventions for SPA and digital technology use among older adults should be gender-tailored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- Department of Social Work, College of Community and Public Affairs, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA.
| | - Danan Gu
- Independent Researcher, New York, NY, 10017, USA.
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Vickery A. 'It's made me feel less isolated because there are other people who are experiencing the same or very similar to you': Men's experiences of using mental health support groups. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:2383-2391. [PMID: 35297130 PMCID: PMC10078724 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This article explores men's experiences of using peer support groups for coping with mental distress. Support groups are organised groups in which people come together to mutually support each other with a shared health concern. There has been increasing research on men's mental health help seeking, but men's use of support groups for mental health difficulties, and the ways support groups could benefit men, is not well understood. Drawing upon 19 interviews from a South Wales, UK qualitative study which explored men's mental health help seeking, coping and management, this article explores the perceived benefits of support groups for men experiencing emotional difficulties. Findings highlight how men who attended groups valued the sense of shared understanding of experiences and the mutual respect that group settings presented them with. Support groups provided a safe space with opportunities to reconstruct traditional masculine norms through reciprocating unique and tailored mental health support to others and developing a certain role within that group. This gave men a sense of purpose which further facilitated mental health management. Findings also indicated the social benefits that support groups can have to men who may have limited social networks or be experiencing isolation. This article adds to the growing literature that focuses on men's mental health experiences and illustrates the benefits of support groups for men in distress. The author suggests that primary services need to be aware of how support groups can positively support men and promote them as an opportunity for connection and unique support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Vickery
- School for Policy StudiesUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
- School of Social SciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUnited Kingdom
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Wikle JS, Yorgason JB. Married Mixed-gender Couples’ Midlife Employment and Later Life Well-being and Housework. SEX ROLES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-022-01306-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Smith DT, Mouzon DM, Elliott M. Hegemonic Masculinity and Mental Health Among Older White Men in the U.S.: The Role of Health and Wealth Decline. SEX ROLES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-022-01291-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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8
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Sandberg LJ, Lövgren K, Hearn J. Bouncing off Ove: Old men's readings of the novel A Man Called Ove as a cultural representation of ageing masculinity. J Aging Stud 2022; 63:101053. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2022.101053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Chae WR, Schienkiewitz A, Du Y, Hapke U, Otte C, Michalski N. Comorbid depression and obesity among adults in Germany: Effects of age, sex, and socioeconomic status. J Affect Disord 2022; 299:383-392. [PMID: 34910960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and obesity are common health problems with major public health implications. These conditions frequently co-occur, adversely affecting the course of the other. The sociodemographic and socioeconomic risk factors for comorbid depression and obesity in the German adult population have not yet been reported. METHODS We analyzed the prevalence and sociodemographic and socioeconomic correlates of comorbid depression and obesity using cross-sectional data from the national German health interview and examination survey for adults (DEGS1; n = 7987) and its mental health module (DEGS1-MH; n = 4493). The Composite International Diagnostic Interview was used to diagnose major depressive disorder (CIDI-MDD). Sensitivity was analyzed using the self-reported depression measure and current depressive symptoms measured by Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Obesity was defined by body mass index calculated from measured data. RESULTS Prevalence of comorbid depression and obesity was 1.3% (95% CI 0.8-2.0) in men and 2.0% (95% CI 1.3-3.0) in women. We found significant sex differences in results from the self-reported depression measure and the PHQ-9, but not from the CIDI-MDD. Low socioeconomic status and poor social support were linked to a higher prevalence of comorbid depression and obesity among women. LIMITATIONS Severe depression may have been underreported. CONCLUSIONS Depression is statistically more prevalent in women than in men, which accounts for many of the sex differences in the prevalence of comorbid depression and obesity in our models. Targeted public health strategies need to be developed to prevent and treat comorbid depression and obesity in women with a low socioeconomic position.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Ri Chae
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Anja Schienkiewitz
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Division of Health Behaviour, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yong Du
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Physical Health Unit, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulfert Hapke
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Mental Health Unit, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Niels Michalski
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Unit of Social Determinants of Health, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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Barrenetxea J, Pan A, Feng Q, Koh WP. Factors associated with depression across age groups of older adults: The Singapore Chinese health study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 34816486 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We studied sociodemographic and health factors associated with depression across three age groups of community-dwelling older adults. METHODS/DESIGN We used data from 16,785 participants from the third follow-up of the Singapore Chinese Health Study (mean age: 73, range: 61-96 years). We defined depression as having a score of ≥5 using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale. We used regression splines to examine the pattern of depression risk with age and applied multivariable logistic regression to study factors associated with depression. RESULTS Increasing age was associated with depression in an inverted J-shape relationship with the highest odds ratio (OR) at age 75. Compared to the youngest-old (<70 years), the middle-old (70-80 years) had higher odds of depression [OR = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09-1.31], while the oldest-old (>80 years) had no increased risk (OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.89-1.15). We also found demographic (men, lower education, unemployment), social (living alone, poor social support, no social activity) and health factors (instrumental limitations, poor physical function, function-limiting pain, chronic diseases, cognitive impairment, poor sleep quality, poor self-rated health) associated with depression. In stratified analysis by age groups, the OR estimates for lower education level, instrumental limitations and cognitive impairment decreased with age, whereas the risk of depression for men increased with age (all p-values for interaction<0.03). CONCLUSIONS Compared to the youngest-old, the likelihood of depression was highest among middle-old adults and decreased to null in the oldest-old. The associations between some factors and depression were attenuated with age, suggesting a coping mechanism among oldest-old survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Barrenetxea
- Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore
| | - An Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiushi Feng
- Department of Sociology & Centre for Family and Population Research, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Woon-Puay Koh
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore
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McLaren S. The Relationship Between Living Alone and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Gay Men: The Moderating Role of Age. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:120-131. [PMID: 32880528 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2020.1813511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Living alone is a risk factor for depressive symptoms among older gay men. It is likely this relationship strengthens as gay men age, due to social isolation and fewer family supports. This study investigated whether the relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms was moderated by age among older gay men. A community sample of 270 Australian gay men aged 60 to 91 years (M = 68.81, SD = 8.69) completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale. Results supported the moderation model. The Johnson-Neyman analysis indicated that living alone was associated with depressive symptoms among gay men aged older than 66.28 years. Results imply that gay men older aged in their mid-sixties and older who live alone are at increased risk of depressive symptoms, and are a group of men that need targeted interventions to reduce depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne McLaren
- School of Psychology, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia
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12
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Lockton J, Oxlad M, Due C. Grandfathers' Experiences of Grief and Support Following Pregnancy Loss or Neonatal Death of a Grandchild. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:2715-2729. [PMID: 34772285 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211041331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy loss and neonatal death are recognized as distressing experiences for parents and other family members. However, no research has specifically addressed the experiences of grandfathers. This study aimed to understand grandfathers' grief experiences, and to identify supports they provide, receive, and desire following the loss of a grandchild in pregnancy or the neonatal period. Semi-structured interviews with 10 Australian grandfathers were analyzed, applying principles of thematic analysis. Three themes related to grief and three themes related to support were identified. Findings indicated that grandfathers expressed grief in a range of ways, and emotional expressiveness did not reflect the extent of their grief. Grandfathers typically provided extensive support to their child and family; however, few supports were available to help grandfathers. Recognition and validation of grandfathers' grief, early access to information, and guidance to a variety of supports including written materials, peer and professional support, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Lockton
- The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melissa Oxlad
- The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Clemence Due
- The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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13
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Respite, renewal, retirement and tensions: Australian Men's Sheds and the impact on significant others. AGEING & SOCIETY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x21001185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The health and wellbeing benefits of Men's Sheds to the men who participate have had significant research attention for over a decade. However, there has been little research into the broader impacts of Men's Sheds, particularly in relation to the impacts on significant others in the lives of the men who participate. Our paper aims to redress this lack of research by focusing on the interrelated perceptions and experiences of men and those closest to them in four Men's Sheds in regional Victoria, Australia. The research shows that the partners and carers of ‘shedders’ reported that the men's participation not only benefited the men but also had benefits for their significant others. The study also showed that the partners of shedders in the study found that their individual and joint adjustment to retirement was in some cases assisted by the men enjoying the social and structured environment of the Men's Shed, while in other cases it was seen by partners as an over-commitment and impacting negatively on the marriage. The findings also shed some important light on some tensions experienced by the partners associated with carer burden and adjustments to retirement.
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14
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Drioli-Phillips PG, Le Couteur A, Oxlad M, Feo R, Scholz B. 'I know you shouldn't compare to other people, but I can't do anything most people can': Age, family and occupation categorisations in men's reasoning about their anxiety in an online discussion forum. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2021; 43:678-696. [PMID: 33899253 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Despite its prevalence, men's anxiety is arguably under-researched and poorly understood. The present study explores the reasoning provided by male posters to an online discussion forum about the source of their anxiety. Posts were collected from an Australian anxiety online discussion forum. This study utilises discursive psychology, informed by principles of membership categorisation analysis, to describe how age, occupation and family-related identities can be invoked within common sense reasoning about the source of male anxiety. References to various identity categories were routinely employed by male forum posters in their representations of themselves, in order to describe the source of their anxiety in terms of a contrast between how they are, and how they should be. In examining accounts of anxiety and responses to those accounts, we can trace cultural knowledge about issues regarding men, masculinity and anxiety that those accounts make relevant. Findings illustrate how men's descriptions of the source of their anxiety should be understood as culturally bound and related to expectations and obligations associated with their social context and category memberships. By enhancing understandings of how men describe the source of their anxiety, this study offers insight into improving the identification and engagement of men experiencing anxiety in health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe G Drioli-Phillips
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amanda Le Couteur
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Melissa Oxlad
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Rebecca Feo
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Brett Scholz
- ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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15
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Ogrodniczuk JS, Rice SM, Kealy D, Seidler ZE, Delara M, Oliffe JL. Psychosocial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study of online help-seeking Canadian men. Postgrad Med 2021; 133:750-759. [PMID: 33402003 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2021.1873027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the lives of men. The present study investigated psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on a help-seeking sample of Canadian men, focusing on diverse aspects of their psychosocial well-being.Methods: A cross-sectional, open survey study design was used. Canadian adult men who were visiting an eHealth depression resource (HeadsUpGuys.org) were recruited to complete an online survey. Descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations for continuous variables and frequency and percentages for categorical variables, were used to summarize survey responses. Regression analysis was utilized to identify factors associated with various mental health indicators (anxiety, depression, fear of COVID-19, suicidality). The Patient Health Questionnaire-4, Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and item 9 (suicidality item) from the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 were used to assess the mental health indicators.Results: A total of 434 men completed the study. Most respondents (79.3%; N = 344) indicated that their mental health was negatively affected by COVID-19, and two-thirds (65.5%; N = 284) conveyed that government-imposed physical distancing measures had negatively affected their mental health. Half the sample (51.2%; N = 222) reported at least moderate financial stress due to COVID-19. Nearly a third of respondents (31.1%; N = 135) reported that their current living situation has had a considerable or severe negative impact on their mental health since COVID-19. About two-fifths (37.7%; N = 94) of men felt that COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their relationship with their intimate partner. Nearly a third of respondents who were in a relationship (30.9%; N = 77) reported that they engaged in some type of abuse (primarily verbal abuse, 22.9%; N = 57) toward their intimate partner during COVID-19, and more than a quarter (27.3%; N = 68) reported being abused by their intimate partner (also primarily verbal abuse, 22.5%; N = 56). Just under half (42.2%; N = 183) of the respondents indicated experiencing suicidal ideation.Conclusion: These findings can help inform providers of health services to Canadian men, as well as policies that will be implemented during subsequent waves of COVID-19 or during future infectious outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Ogrodniczuk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Simon M Rice
- Orygen, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Kealy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Zac E Seidler
- Orygen, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mahin Delara
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - John L Oliffe
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Nursing, The University of Melbourne, Australia
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Jønsson AR, Reventlow S, Guassora AD. How Older Men With Multimorbidity Relate to Successful Aging. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 75:1104-1112. [PMID: 30726982 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research on successful aging gives limited attention to the role of suffering from multiple chronic conditions (multimorbidity) in combination with notions of masculinity. We address this by bringing into focus how older men with multimorbidity within the Nordic Model welfare system relate to successful aging. The objective is to bring new insights into key elements of how masculinity, multimorbidity and cultural context create alternative individual versions of successful aging. METHOD The article draws on a long-term fieldwork (18 months) among older men (n=7), who were part of a larger study that also included older women. The fieldwork consisted of 28 interviews with participating men. These data were supplemented by 124 hr of informal chats and observations as well as 32 hr of clinical encounters with health services. Data analysis followed a thematic approach. RESULTS Analysis revealed that older men with multimorbidity understood core components of successful aging, yet did not closely follow them, and instead came up with alternative, gendered interpretations. This process involved three themes centered around independency of: (a) unaided successful aging, (b) vicarious successful aging, and (c) masculine successful aging. DISCUSSION Our study contributes to research on perceptions of successful aging with insights to the role of cultural context, gender and multimorbidity. Living with multimorbidity challenges the ability of the men to positively frame themselves as successfully aging older adults; however, they navigate this dilemma by constructing their own experiences in their own terms of independence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susanne Reventlow
- The Research Unit for General Practice in Copenhagen, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ann Dorrit Guassora
- The Research Unit for General Practice in Copenhagen, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Rydberg Sterner T, Dahlin-Ivanoff S, Gudmundsson P, Wiktorsson S, Hed S, Falk H, Skoog I, Waern M. 'I wanted to talk about it, but I couldn't', an H70 focus group study about experiencing depression in early late life. BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:528. [PMID: 33287708 PMCID: PMC7720563 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01908-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about experiences of depression among younger-old adults from the general population is limited. The aim was to explore experiences of depression in early late life. METHODS Sixteen participants in the population-based Gothenburg H70 Birth Cohort Studies (12 women and 4 men) who had reported a history of depression between ages 60-70 took part in focus group discussions (n = 4). Data were analyzed using focus group methodology. RESULTS The analysis resulted in the overall theme 'I wanted to talk about it, but I couldn't'. The participants expressed unmet needs of communication about depression with family, friends, and healthcare staff. Participants wanted to know more about the causes and effects of depression, available treatment options and how to avoid recurrence. Lack of knowledge was a source of frustration; trust in health care providers was diminished. Being retired meant that opportunities for communication with co-workers were no longer available, and this made it harder to break negative thought and behavioral patterns. Being depressed meant losing one's normal self, and participants were grieving this. Thoughts of death and suicide were experienced in solitude; knowing that there was an escape could generate a feeling of comfort and control. CONCLUSIONS Younger-old adults have expressed a need to talk about their experiences of depression. They would like to know more about available treatments, potential side effects, and how to avoid recurrence. Care providers also need to be aware there is a need for an existential dialogue about death.
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Grants
- 825-2007-7462, 2016-01590, 11267, 825-2012-5041, RAM 2013-8717, 2015-02830, 2017-00639, 2019-01096 Vetenskapsrådet
- 2001-2835, 2004-0145, 2006-0596, Epilife 2006-1506, 2008-1111, 2010-0870, 2013-0475, 2013-1202, AGECAP 2013-2300, 2013-2496, 2016-07097, 2018-00471 Forskningsrådet om Hälsa, Arbetsliv och Välfärd
- 716681, 715841 the Swedish state under the agreement between the Swedish government and the county councils (ALF)
- Hjärnfonden
- Alzheimerfonden
- Konung Gustaf V:s och Drottning Victorias Frimurarestiftelse
- Fredrik och Ingrid Thurings Stiftelse
- Stiftelsen Handlanden Hjalmar Svenssons
- Gun och Bertil Stohnes Stiftelse
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese Rydberg Sterner
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden.
| | - Synneve Dahlin-Ivanoff
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pia Gudmundsson
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Stefan Wiktorsson
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Sara Hed
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Psychiatry, Cognition and Old Age Psychiatry Clinic, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hanna Falk
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Psychiatry, Cognition and Old Age Psychiatry Clinic, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingmar Skoog
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Psychiatry, Cognition and Old Age Psychiatry Clinic, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Margda Waern
- Centre for Aging and Health (AgeCap) at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Psychosis Clinic, Gothenburg, Sweden
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18
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D’Souza A, Fabricius A, Amodio V, Colquhoun H, Lewko J, Haag H(L, Quilico E, Archambault P, Colantonio A, Mollayeva T. Men’s gendered experiences of rehabilitation and recovery following traumatic brain injury: A reflexive thematic analysis. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2020; 32:337-358. [DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2020.1822882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D’Souza
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury and Society Laboratory, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Alexis Fabricius
- Acquired Brain Injury and Society Laboratory, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Vanessa Amodio
- Acquired Brain Injury and Society Laboratory, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Heather Colquhoun
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - John Lewko
- School of Rural and Northern Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Halina (Lin) Haag
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Enrico Quilico
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Patrick Archambault
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Angela Colantonio
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury and Society Laboratory, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tatyana Mollayeva
- Acquired Brain Injury and Society Laboratory, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Acquired Brain Injury Research Laboratory, University of Toronto, Toronto
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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19
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Pabón-Carrasco M, Ramirez-Baena L, López Sánchez R, Rodríguez-Gallego I, Suleiman-Martos N, Gómez-Urquiza JL. Prevalence of Depression in Retirees: A Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2020; 8:healthcare8030321. [PMID: 32899813 PMCID: PMC7551681 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare8030321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Retirement is a final life stage characterized by the ceasing of work and the loss of a routine, social relations, role, status, accomplishments, and aspirations, etc. Many times it is accompanied by negative feelings and can provoke different psychoemotional reactions such as depression, among others. The aim of this study is to analyze the prevalence of depression, as well as its psychoeducational approach in retirees. Methods: A paired systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted in different databases—Medline, Scopus, CUIDEN, CINAHL, LILACS and PsycINFO. Original studies were included in English, Spanish and French that were published in the last 10 years, and which approached depression in retirees. Results: A total of 11 articles were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mean value of the prevalence levels of depression in retirees obtained in the meta-analysis was 28%. Depression is more frequent in retirees, with mandatory retirement, retirement due to illness, and anticipated retirement presenting higher levels of this disease. The health role in the psychoeducational approach is highlighted in 41.6% (n = 5). Conclusions: With almost one-third of retirees suffering from depression, it is necessary to implement prevention and early detection measures to approach a public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Pabón-Carrasco
- Spanish Red Cross Nursing School, Sevilla University, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; (M.P.-C.); (I.R.-G.)
| | - Lucia Ramirez-Baena
- Spanish Red Cross Nursing School, Sevilla University, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; (M.P.-C.); (I.R.-G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Raúl López Sánchez
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona, 08023 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Isabel Rodríguez-Gallego
- Spanish Red Cross Nursing School, Sevilla University, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; (M.P.-C.); (I.R.-G.)
| | - Nora Suleiman-Martos
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Campus University of Ceuta, 51001 Ceuta, Spain;
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20
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Seven A's of Active Aging: Older Men's Suggestions for Physical Activity Programs. J Aging Phys Act 2020; 28:53-62. [PMID: 31188711 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2018-0450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In an attempt to offset the widespread anticipated impact of aging populations, active aging programs have become nearly ubiquitous in Western society. Nonetheless, older adults tend to remain relatively inactive. The perspectives of older adults constitute a key resource to help guide active aging efforts. Moreover, gender-sensitized and ecological approaches to physical activity programming may contribute markedly to the efficacy and inclusiveness of such initiatives. Considering the paucity of research regarding older men's suggestions for physical activity programs, this study involved semistructured interviews to ascertain the perceptions among 19 older men (aged 75-90 years). Through a thematic analysis, seven key attributes emerged that participants believed physical activity programs should possess: affordable, available, accessible, adapted, alternative, accompanied, and awareness. The complexities and implications pertaining to these attributes are discussed in the context of ecological theory and ideals of masculinity.
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21
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Fernández-Niño JA, Bonilla-Tinoco LJ, Manrique-Espinoza BS, Romero-Martínez M, Sosa-Ortiz AL. Work status, retirement, and depression in older adults: An analysis of six countries based on the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE). SSM Popul Health 2018; 6:1-8. [PMID: 30101185 PMCID: PMC6083014 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to analyse the association between the occurrence of a major depressive episode among older adults and work status in low- and medium-income countries. A cross-sectional study was conducted with people 60 years of age and older from the six countries (Mexico, India, China, Russian Federation, Ghana and South Africa) included in the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) and who participated in its first wave (2009-2010). The occurrence of a major depressive episode (MDE) over the previous 12 months was determined based on an adaptation of the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria. The association between current work status and the presence of an MDE was estimated using binary logistic regression models with country-level fixed effects, and interaction terms between the country and work status. Results showed the odds of presenting an MDE were lower for older adults who were retired with a pension than for those who were currently working, although this protective association was observed only for men in China (OR=0.23; CI 95%:0.08-0.70) and Ghana (OR=0.25; CI 95%:0.07-0.95) and for women in India (OR=0.05; CI 95%:0.01-0.51) and South Africa (OR=0.19; CI 95%:0.04-0.97). For women, being a homemaker also showed a protective association in South Africa (OR=0.09; CI95%:0.01-0.66) and Mexico (OR=0.32; CI95%:0.14-0.76). In the case of being retired without a pension, no significant association was found in any country. The previous indicates that retirement with pension has a protective association with MDE only for men in China and Ghana and women in India and South Africa. The heterogeneity of this association reflects cultural and socioeconomic differences between the analysed countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Martin Romero-Martínez
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Avenida Universidad 655, Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100 Cuernavaca, México
| | - Ana Luisa Sosa-Ortiz
- Laboratorio de Demencias – Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Av. Insurgentes Sur 3877 Del, Tlalpan, Col. La Fama, Ciudad de México, México
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22
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Silver MP, Williams SA. Reluctance to Retire: A Qualitative Study on Work Identity, Intergenerational Conflict, and Retirement in Academic Medicine. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2018; 58:320-330. [PMID: 27586874 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnw142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of the Study Some professions foster expectations that individuals cultivate their work identity above all other aspects of life. This can be problematic when individuals are confronted with the expectation that they will readily terminate this identity in later-career stages as institutions seek to cycle in new generations. This study examines the relationship between work identity and retirement by examining multiple generations of academic physicians. Design and Methods This study used a multimethod qualitative design that included document analysis, participant observation, focus groups, and in-depth interviews with academic physicians from one of the oldest departments of medicine in North America. Results This study illustrates how participants were predisposed and then groomed through institutional efforts to embrace a career trajectory that emphasized work above all else and fostered negative sensibilities about retirement. Participants across multiple generations described a lack of work-life balance and a prioritization of their careers above nonwork commitments. Assertions that less experienced physicians were not as dedicated to medicine and implicit assumptions that later-career physicians should retire emerged as key concerns. Implications Strong work identity and tensions between different generations may confound concerns about retirement in ways that complicate institutional succession planning and that demonstrate how traditional understandings of retirement are out of date. Findings support the need to creatively reconsider the ways we examine relations between work identity, age, and retirement in ways that account for the recent extensions in the working lives of professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Pannor Silver
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anthropology/Health Studies, University of Toronto Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah A Williams
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Fernández-Niño JA, Bonilla-Tinoco LJ, Astudillo-García CI, Manrique-Hernández EF, Giraldo-Gartner V. Association between the employment status and the presence of depressive symptoms in men and women in Mexico. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2018; 34:e00219617. [DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00219617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: This study aims to estimate the relationship between employment status and depressive symptoms among Mexican adults, as well as to explore its differential effect by gender. Cross-sectional study of 36,516 adults between 20 and 59 years of age taken from the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the employment status was determined a week before the survey. Logistic regression models were stratified by gender and education level and adjusted by sociodemographic and health-related conditions to estimate the association between depressive symptoms and employment status. The prevalence of clinically depressive symptoms was 7.59% for men and 18.62% for women. In the case of men, those who were unemployed were more likely to present depressive symptoms (OR = 1.66; 95%CI: 1.08-2.55) than those who were working. For women, employment status is not associated with the presence of depressive symptoms, except in students (OR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.02-2.43) compared with those who were working. In both genders, disability preventing one from working was associated with depressive symptoms. Although being employed has been reported to be associated with lower levels of psychiatric morbidity, the estimated effect is different for men and women. Occupational health policies should consider these conditions.
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24
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Yu Ko WF, Oliffe JL, Johnson JL, Bottorff JL. The Connections Between Work, Prostate Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, and the Decision to Undergo Radical Prostatectomy. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:1670-1680. [PMID: 29938564 PMCID: PMC6142122 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318781720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer diagnosis can occur at a time when men's work and careers are central to their masculine identity, sense of purpose, and family life. In Canada, an aging male population, along with medical advances, has resulted in increasing numbers of working men being diagnosed with, and treated for, prostate cancer. Little is known about the linkages between men's work and their experiences of prostate cancer. In this qualitative study, 24 Western Canadian men were interviewed to distil the connections between work, prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and the decision to undergo radical prostatectomy. Data were analyzed using constant comparison in the context of masculinities theory. The findings demonstrated that work was central to men's masculine identities and afforded financial security, social status, and a sense of personal growth. However, work-related strain and demands were also found to affect participants' health and distance them from their families. A diagnosis of prostate cancer tended to diminish the importance of work, wherein participants focused on optimizing their health and strengthening family relations. In deciding on radical prostatectomy as a treatment to eradicate prostate cancer, few men considered the implications for returning to work. The current study findings indicate that clinicians and patients should explicitly explore and discuss how surgery side effects may affect work and career plans during treatment decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wellam F. Yu Ko
- School of Nursing, University of British
Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - John L. Oliffe
- School of Nursing, University of British
Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joy L. Johnson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser
University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Joan L. Bottorff
- School of Nursing, University of British
Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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25
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McPherson S, Rost F, Town J, Abbass A. Epistemological flaws in NICE review methodology and its impact on recommendations for psychodynamic psychotherapies for complex and persistent depression. PSYCHOANALYTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/02668734.2018.1458331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan McPherson
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Felicitas Rost
- Portman Clinic, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Joel Town
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Allan Abbass
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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Hurd Clarke L, Lefkowich M. 'I don't really have any issue with masculinity': Older Canadian men's perceptions and experiences of embodied masculinity. J Aging Stud 2018; 45:18-24. [PMID: 29735205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The article explores what older Canadian men consider to be the definition of masculinity, how they evaluate their own masculinity relative to their definition, and how and why they use particular forms of body work in response to aging and their understandings of masculinity. Data are presented from qualitative interviews with 29 community-dwelling men aged 65-89. The men in our study defined masculinity relationally with femininity and homosexuality and identified three hallmarks of masculinity, namely: physical strength, leadership, and virility. While the men tended to emphasize that they were secure in their own masculine identities, some conceded that they diverged from societal definitions of masculinity with respect to their preferred activities, physical attributes, or personal qualities. Many of the men also perceived that aging and the accompanying physical and social changes were threats to their continued ability to be masculine. In an effort to slow down or redress bodily changes that were perceived to be undermining or diminishing their masculinity, the men engaged in exercise and/or were using or considering pharmaceutical interventions such as Viagra and Cialis. We discuss our findings in light of the masculinity literature and age relations theorizing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hurd Clarke
- School of Kinesiology, The University of British Columbia, 1924-156 West Mall, Vancouver, V6T 1Z2, B.C., Canada.
| | - Maya Lefkowich
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, B.C., Canada.
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27
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Kunde L, Kõlves K, Kelly B, Reddy P, de Leo D. "The Masks We Wear": A Qualitative Study of Suicide in Australian Farmers. J Rural Health 2018; 34:254-262. [PMID: 29322558 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Farmer suicide is a major public issue in Australia. Using the psychological autopsy method, this study aimed to examine the life and death circumstances of Australian male farmers who died by suicide through verbal reports from their close significant others. METHODS Individual semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 relatives of male farmers who had died by suicide in Queensland or New South Wales, Australia (2006-2014). This study followed the COREQ checklist criteria for the reporting of qualitative research. FINDINGS Six interrelated themes were identified: (1) masculinity, (2) uncertainty and lack of control in farming, (3) feelings of failure in relationships and farming, (4) escalating health problems, (5) maladaptive coping, and (6) acquired capability with access to means. CONCLUSIONS Effective clinical interventions, as well as suicide prevention strategies, need to consider the importance of 3 key issues in suicide among farmers: adherence to masculine norms and socialization; expectations of self in maintaining family traditions and occupation; and a male subtype of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kunde
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Mt. Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kairi Kõlves
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Mt. Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brian Kelly
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Prasuna Reddy
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diego de Leo
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Mt. Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
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28
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Flurey C, White A, Rodham K, Kirwan J, Noddings R, Hewlett S. 'Everyone assumes a man to be quite strong': Men, masculinity and rheumatoid arthritis: A case-study approach. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2018; 40:115-129. [PMID: 29034486 PMCID: PMC5813274 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Current literature has overlooked the impact of chronic illness on masculine identity. We therefore aimed to investigate the impact of rheumatoid arthritis (a long term condition, affecting more women than men) on masculine identity. Six focus groups with 22 men with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (data reported elsewhere) followed by five one-to-one interviews with men (English, mean age: 59 years) sampled to reflect a heterogeneous experience of life with RA based on knowledge gained from the focus groups. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and are presented as individual case studies. Whilst the case studies provide five distinct experiences, common themes can be drawn across them, such as the importance of paid work. The men needed to renegotiate their masculine identity to deal with their RA. Two dealt with this by pushing through pain to retain masculine activities, two replaced masculine roles they could no longer do with other roles, and one rejected masculinity completely. Men with long term conditions may need to re-write their masculinity scripts to enable them to accept and adapt to their condition. However, some men struggle with this, which should be taken into consideration when designing self-management services for men with long term conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Flurey
- Academic RheumatologyUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Alan White
- Centre for Men's Health, Faculty of Health & Social SciencesLeeds Beckett UniversityLeedsUK
| | - Karen Rodham
- Psychology, sports and exerciseStaffordshire UniversityUK
| | | | | | - Sarah Hewlett
- Academic RheumatologyUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
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Ridge D, Broom A, Kokanović R, Ziebland S, Hill N. Depression at work, authenticity in question: Experiencing, concealing and revealing. Health (London) 2017; 23:344-361. [PMID: 29090635 DOI: 10.1177/1363459317739437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Australia and the United Kingdom have introduced policies to protect employees who experience mental illness, including depression. However, a better understanding of the experiential issues workers face (e.g. sense of moral failure) is needed for the provision of appropriate and beneficial support. We analysed 73 interviews from the United Kingdom and Australia where narratives of depression and work intersected. Participants encountered difficulties in being (and performing as if) 'authentic' at work, with depression contributing to confusions about the self. The diffuse post-1960s imperative to 'be yourself' is experienced in conflicting ways: while some participants sought support from managers and colleagues (e.g. sick leave, back-to-work plans), many others put on a façade in an attempt to perform the 'well' and 'authentic' employee. We outline the contradictory forces at play for participants when authenticity and visibility are expected, yet, moral imperatives to be good (healthy) employees are normative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Broom
- University of New South Wales, Australia
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Athanasiadis C, Gough B, Robertson S. What do counsellors need to know about male depression? BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2017.1346232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chrysostomos Athanasiadis
- Division of Counselling and Psychological Therapies, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Brendan Gough
- School of Social Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Steve Robertson
- School of Health and Community Studies, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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31
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Mackenzie CS, Roger K, Robertson S, Oliffe JL, Nurmi MA, Urquhart J. Counter and Complicit Masculine Discourse Among Men's Shed Members. Am J Mens Health 2017; 11:1224-1236. [PMID: 28068851 PMCID: PMC5675326 DOI: 10.1177/1557988316685618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Men’s Sheds is a growing international movement aimed at providing men with places and activities that facilitate social connectedness. Despite Men’s Sheds’ focus on males, little attention has been paid to masculinities within the specific context of these settings. The current study used a gender relations framework to explore the ways in which attendees discussed Men’s Sheds, with particular attention to discussions that were complicit and counter to traditional, hegemonic views of masculinity, and diverse positions in between these binaries. The data consisted of transcripts and field notes from four focus groups comprising mostly older, White, retired male members of a Canadian shed (N = 22). The analysis revealed three overall themes: (1) focus on work, (2) independence, and (3) need for male-focused spaces. These themes and associated subthemes suggest that shed members ascribe to dominant masculine values and ideals, but also support more fluid and flexible views of masculinity. Implications are discussed for how working with an array of masculinities within the Men’s Sheds movement will be helpful with respect to their future growth in Canada and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kerstin Roger
- 1 University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - John L Oliffe
- 3 University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Airagnes G, Lemogne C, Hoertel N, Goldberg M, Limosin F, Zins M. Childhood adversity and depressive symptoms following retirement in the Gazel cohort. J Psychiatr Res 2016; 82:80-90. [PMID: 27471842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2016.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a few studies have examined whether specific moderators may impact the magnitude of the relationship between retirement and depression. The aim of this study was to examine the potential moderating role of adverse childhood life events (ACLE) on changes in depressive symptoms following retirement in the GAZEL cohort. METHODS 9242 participants, followed up since 1989, completed the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESD) every three years and were asked in 2004 to answer an ACLE questionnaire. Subjects were classed according to 6 clusters by Two-Step Cluster Analysis (no ACLE: cluster 1; increasing material deprivation: clusters 2 to 4; history of early separation: cluster 5 and history of conflicts or violence: cluster 6), and then stratified for sex. Analyses were based on general linear models with the CESD variation between, before and after retirement as dependent variable. All results were adjusted according to age, marital status, occupational status, alcohol consumption, self-rated health and CESD score before retirement. RESULTS The association between exposure to ACLE and changes in depressive symptoms following retirement was significant in both men (F = 6.929; p < 0.001; eta(2) = 0.005) and women (F = 6.890; p < 0.001; eta(2) = 0.016). Exposure to early separation or history of conflicts or violence during childhood was associated with less improvement in both men and women, whereas early exposure to material deprivation only affected results in men. CONCLUSIONS Programs aimed at facilitating retirement transition may focus on subjects at risk of not experiencing the expected benefits of retirement, which is the case for those with a history of ACLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Airagnes
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Ouest, Department of Psychiatry, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Facultéde Médecine, France.
| | - Cédric Lemogne
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Ouest, Department of Psychiatry, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Facultéde Médecine, France; Inserm, U894, Centre Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Hoertel
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Ouest, Department of Psychiatry, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Facultéde Médecine, France; Inserm, U894, Centre Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Marcel Goldberg
- Inserm, UMS 011, Population-based Epidemiological Cohorts, Villejuif, France; Inserm UMR 1168, VIMA, Villejuif, France
| | - Frédéric Limosin
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Ouest, Department of Psychiatry, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Facultéde Médecine, France; Inserm, U894, Centre Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Marie Zins
- Inserm, UMS 011, Population-based Epidemiological Cohorts, Villejuif, France; Inserm UMR 1168, VIMA, Villejuif, France
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Hiebert B, Leipert B, Regan S, Burkell J. Rural Men's Health, Health Information Seeking, and Gender Identities: A Conceptual Theoretical Review of the Literature. Am J Mens Health 2016; 12:863-876. [PMID: 27170674 DOI: 10.1177/1557988316649177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Beginning as early as 2009, recent shifts in Canadian health care delivery indicate that access to health information is essential to promote and maintain a healthy population. It is important to understand how and where various populations, such as underresourced rural populations, access health information so that public health agencies can develop and deliver appropriate information with, for, and in these contexts. There is a paucity of research that specifically examines how rural Canadian men seek health information; therefore, this review aimed to conceptualize this process based on three dynamic key constructs: health patterns of rural Canadians, health information-seeking behaviors, and rural gender identities. This conceptual theoretical literature review included 91 articles at the intersection of these three constructs. Discussion focuses on how residing in a rural region influences men's health and health care access. Health information-seeking behaviors are discussed in terms of social networks and framed with a rural context. Connell's theory of masculinity provides a useful approach to dissecting how rural men's gender identities influence their health attitudes, and how such attitudes are embedded in rural social and cultural norms. Each major construct-health in rural Canada, health information seeking, and rural gender identities-is discussed to highlight how specific embodiments of masculinity may promote and inhibit men's health information-seeking and positive health behaviors.
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Choi E. Older Workers and Federal Work Programs: The Korean Senior Employment Program (KSEP). J Aging Soc Policy 2016; 28:308-24. [PMID: 26942833 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2016.1153993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Federal older worker programs are attracting attention due to the growing number of older workers across the world. They are uniquely situated to provide out-of-market work opportunities to older job seekers, who often find their age a barrier to securing desirable jobs. In 2004, the Korean government established its own program, the Korean Senior Employment Program (KSEP); however, literature for international readers on this innovative program is lacking. Thus, this article aims to provide an in-depth description of KSEP and a brief comparison between the Senior Community Service Employment Program in the U.S. and KSEP. The unique characteristics of KSEP include having the dual program foci on supplemental income and social participation; expanding work opportunities in the private sector beyond community-based jobs; accepting participants who are financially disadvantaged as well as those with a high desire for social participation regardless of their income; and broadening work opportunities for those with professional skills beyond repetitive, simple, and temporary jobs. This article may offer helpful insights to older worker advocates from various countries in creating or modifying their programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunhee Choi
- a Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado , USA
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Dale CM, Angus JE, Seto Nielsen L, Kramer-Kile M, Pritlove C, Lapum J, Price J, Marzolini S, Abramson B, Oh P, Clark A. "I'm No Superman": Understanding Diabetic Men, Masculinity, and Cardiac Rehabilitation. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2015; 25:1648-1661. [PMID: 25583960 DOI: 10.1177/1049732314566323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs help patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) reduce their risk of recurrent cardiac illness, disability, and death. However, men with CHD and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) demonstrate lower attendance and completion of CR despite having a poor prognosis. Drawing on gender and masculinity theory, we report on a qualitative study of 16 Canadian diabetic men recently enrolled in CR. Major findings reflect two discursive positions men assumed to regain a sense of competency lost in illness: (a) working with the experts, or (b) rejection of biomedical knowledge. These positions underscore the varied and sometimes contradictory responses of seriously ill men to health guidance. Findings emphasize the priority given to the rehabilitation of a positive masculine identity. The analysis argues that gender, age, and employment status are powerful mechanisms of variable CR participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan E Angus
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Cheryl Pritlove
- York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul Oh
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Clark
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Isaacson M, D'Ambrosio L, Samanta T, Coughlin J. Life-Stage and Mobility: An Exploratory GPS Study of Mobility in Multigenerational Families, Ahmedabad, India. J Aging Soc Policy 2015; 27:348-63. [PMID: 26161686 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2015.1058123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
As the population of older adults in India grows, research is needed to plan a sustainable future for India's older adults. This article reports results from a Global Positioning System (GPS)-based pilot study that examined the mobility of middle-class, older adults living in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Using mobility as a lens through which to examine the lives of older adults, we map potential research and identify policy areas of interest considering older adults in urban India. The study explores the role of life stage in mobility as well as the effects of gender and urban environment on mobility. Using this distinctive perspective on day-to-day life, we propose themes through which, using policy and planning tools, the living environments of older adults in Indian cities can be improved. These policy measures include focusing on walkability and pedestrian safety in residential areas and building on existing mixed land use to create high accessibility to goods and services in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Isaacson
- a Postdoctoral Associate, New England University Transportation Center, AgeLab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Lisa D'Ambrosio
- b Research Associate, New England University Transportation Center, AgeLab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Tannistha Samanta
- c Assistant Professor, Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology , Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad , Gujarat , India
| | - Joseph Coughlin
- d Director, New England University Transportation Center, AgeLab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , Massachusetts , USA
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Culph JS, Wilson NJ, Cordier R, Stancliffe RJ. Men's Sheds and the experience of depression in older Australian men. Aust Occup Ther J 2015; 62:306-15. [PMID: 26061865 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Men's Sheds are community spaces where, usually, older men can socialise as they participate in a range of woodwork and other activities. There is currently little research evidence supporting the anecdotally reported mental health and wellbeing benefits of Men's Sheds. This research project investigated how older men with self-reported symptoms of depression experience their participation in Men's Sheds. METHODS This study included in-depth interviews and administration of the Beck Depression Inventory-II with 12 men from 3 Men's Sheds, triangulated with observation of the different shed environments. Interviews explored how participation in the Men's Shed, living in a regional area, and retirement intersected with experiences of depression. Participants had either self-reported symptoms of depression or a diagnosis of depression. RESULTS The findings from this study support the notion that participation at Men's Sheds decreases self-reported symptoms of depression. Beck Depression Inventory-II scores showed that most participants were currently experiencing minimal depression. The Men's Sheds environment promoted a sense of purpose through relationships and in the sharing of skills, new routines, motivation, and enjoyment for its members. The shed encouraged increased physical activity and use of cognitive skills. Finally, participants reported feelings of pride and achievement which had an impact on their sense of self-worth. CONCLUSION Men's Sheds provide an opportunity to promote health and wellbeing among retired men. The shed's activity and social focus offers a way to help men rediscover purpose and self. Further research is required to measure symptoms of depression before and after participation in Men's Sheds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S Culph
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nathan J Wilson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Reinie Cordier
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Roger J Stancliffe
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Onyura B, Bohnen J, Wasylenki D, Jarvis A, Giblon B, Hyland R, Silver I, Leslie K. Reimagining the self at late-career transitions: how identity threat influences academic physicians' retirement considerations. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2015; 90:794-801. [PMID: 25881649 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000000718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is scant empirical work exploring academic physicians' psychosocial adjustment during late-career transitions or on the factors that influence their retirement decisions. The authors examine these issues through the lens of sociopsychological identity theory, specifically examining how identity threat influences academic physicians' decisions about retirement. METHOD Participants were academic physicians at a Canadian medical school and were recruited via e-mail requests for clinical faculty interested in discussing late-career and retirement planning issues. Participants included 15 males and 6 females (N = 21; mean age = 63, standard deviation = 7.54), representing eight specialties (clinical and surgical). Data were collected in October and November 2012 via facilitated focus groups, which were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and anonymized, then analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four primary themes were identified: centrality of occupational identity, experiences of identity threat, experiences of aging in an indifferent system, and coping with late-career transitions. Identity threats were manifested in apprehensions about self-esteem after retirement, practice continuity, and clinical competence, as well as in a loss of meaning and belonging. These identity challenges influenced decisions on whether to retire. Organizational and system support was perceived as wanting. Coping strategies included reimagining and revaluing various aspects of the self through assimilating new activities and reprioritizing others. CONCLUSIONS Identity-related struggles are a significant feature of academic physicians' considerations about late-career transitions. Understanding these challenges, their antecedents, and their consequences can prepare faculty, and their institutions, to better manage late-career transitions. Individual- and institution-level implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Onyura
- B. Onyura is research and evaluation consultant, Centre for Faculty Development, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. J. Bohnen is professor of surgery and vice dean of clinical affairs, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. D. Wasylenki is professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. A. Jarvis is professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. B. Giblon is a retired family physician, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. R. Hyland is a practicing respirologist and professor, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, and former physician-in-chief, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I. Silver is professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, and vice president of education, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. K. Leslie is director, Centre for Faculty Development, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, and professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Wu TW, Oliffe JL, Bungay V, Johnson JL. Male ICU nurses' experiences of taking care of dying patients and their families: a gender analysis. Am J Mens Health 2014; 9:44-52. [PMID: 24692248 DOI: 10.1177/1557988314528236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male intensive care unit (ICU) nurses bring energy and expertise along with an array of beliefs and practices to their workplace. This article investigates the experiences of male ICU nurses in the context of caring for dying patients and their families. Applying a gender analysis, distilled are insights to how masculinities inform and influence the participants' practices and coping strategies. The findings reveal participants draw on masculine ideals of being a protector and rational in their decisive actions toward meeting the comfort needs of dying patients and their families. Somewhat paradoxically, most participants also transgressed masculine norms by outwardly expressing their feelings and talking about emotions related to these experiences. Participants also reported renewed appreciation of their life and their families and many men chronicled recreational activities and social connectedness as strategies for coping with workplace induced stresses. The findings drawn from this study can guide both formal and informal support services for men who are ICU nurses, which in turn might aid retention of this subgroup of workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammy W Wu
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John L Oliffe
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vicky Bungay
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joy L Johnson
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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